Tillandsia kolbii

Common Name: Air Plant

Family: Bromeliaceae

Genus: Tillandsia

Species: T. kolbii

Leaf Color: Green to light green – base covered in trichomes

Flower Color: Purple

Height: 3-4″

Width: 2.5-3.5″

Lifespan: Several years

Watering: Submerge 20-30 minutes – once a week

Propagation: Seeds and pups

Natural Habitat: Guatemala

Toxicity: Non-toxic

Tillandsia kolbii Care

Part of the Bromeliaceae family, Tillandsia kolbii is an epiphytic air plant that naturally grows in Guatemala. This particular species is characterized by its light green to almost silver-colored leaves with a purple hue. The base of each leaf is also covered in trichomes, or tiny hair-like structures, which help Tillandsia kolbii absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. Caring for Tillandsia kolbii is relatively easy.

Here are a few general care tips:

Watering

Submerge your Tillandsia kolbii in water for 20-30 minutes once a week. This will give the plant time to absorb the water it needs to stay healthy.

Lighting

Place your Tillandsia kolbii in an area that receives bright, indirect light. too much direct sunlight can harm the plant.

Temperature

Tillandsia kolbii prefers warm temperatures and will do best in an environment that is between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Most indoor environments will meet this criteria.

Flowering

The plant will produce small purple flowers only once in its lifetime. After it flowers, Tillandsia kolbii will die, but it will produce pups before it does.

Tillandsia kolbii Habitat

Tillandsia kolbii is native to Guatemala, where it grows on trees and other plants in the wild.

Tillandsia kolbii Lifespan

Expect your Tillandsia kolbii to live for several years with proper care.

Propagating Tillandsia kolbii

After the plant flowers and dies, it will produce pups that can be propagated to create new plants. You can also propagate Tillandsia kolbii from seed, although it is a slower process.

Tillandsia kolbii Toxicity

This plant is non-toxic and safe to have around pets and children.